VBA begins works on major flood alleviation scheme at Mytholmroyd

VBA, a joint venture comprising VolkerStevin, Boskalis Westminster and SNC-Lavalin’s Atkins business has started design and build work on the Environment Agency’s £30million flood defence scheme in Mytholmroyd, West Yorkshire. The Calder Valley scheme will protect up to 400 homes and businesses and sustain economic growth.

Following initial drainage works, the project in its entirety will include new raised and improved flood walls, the relocation of Caldene Bridge, widening of the river channel at key locations, as well as flood proofing buildings next to the river.

Nick Culshaw, operations director at VBA, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside the Environment Agency and their partners Calderdale Council to build and improve flood defences throughout the village and assist the community in sustaining future economic growth.”

Helen Batt, calder catchment director for the Environment Agency, said: “We are pleased with how the flood defence works are progressing on site as they will provide much better protection against flood risk for local homes and businesses.”

As part of VBA’s commitment to providing residents and businesses with up-to-date information regarding the project, it has set up a dedicated on-site customer drop-in centre which opens in May.

The scheme will provide improved protection to the area around Mytholmroyd Church, Cragg Brook, Greenhills Industrial Estate, Caldene Bridge and up-stream to Hawks Clough Bridge.

The work started in April of this year and is expected to be completed in winter 2019/20.